Facts about the train from Hanoi to Lao Cai
| Cheapest Train | $19 |
| Fastest Train | 6h 33m |
| Earliest Train | 9:35 PM |
| Latest Train | 11:52 PM |
| Daily Train Routes | 0 |
| Distance | 200 kilometers |
| Train | Damitrans, Tiim Group, Vietnam Rail |
Trains from Hanoi to Lao Cai
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Hanoi to Lao Cai Destination Reviews
GA
Garth AVietnam trains are mostly average, mostly depart and arrive on-time. Boarding process poorly organized, there is no ticket desk or counter. Most passengers boarded 45-minutes prior, but, Fanxipan REP did not appear until later to hand-out boarding passes. VNR employees insisted that train would not depart with waiting passengers, but still, given language differences, was un-nerving and unnecessary.
Hanoi to Lao Cai, Train #SP3 Deluxe Cabin 4x, Fanxipan Express, Feb 24, 2026
AS
Anuj SNot sure why people complain about the noise. It is a train, for the love of God and everything holy, get over it. It was comfortable and clean. We would do it again.
Hanoi to Lao Cai, Train #SP7 Suite Twin Cabin, Chapa Express, Feb 21, 2026
NH
Neil HGreat. Comfortable 👍
Hanoi to Lao Cai, Train #SP3 VIP Sleeper 4x, Laman Express, Feb 20, 2026
OP
Owen PThe Vicsapa staff and organisation was second to none, absolutely fantastic. The VIP Twin Cabin was comfortable, the toilets were clean, and the free drinks/snacks were appreciated. Despite the bed being very comfortable, the persistent hammering noise of the tracks was particularly mind numbing.
Hanoi to Lao Cai, Train #SP3 VIP Twin Cabin + SUV, Vicsapa Train, Feb 16, 2026
NI
Nathan IThe train is noisy and bumpy but that has nothing to do with Chapa and is just how old trains are in Vietnam. But the cabin was comfortable, the link to the Sapa private transport was seamless and it was all relatively easy.
Hanoi to Lao Cai, Train #SP3 VIP Cabin 2x, Chapa Express, Feb 8, 2026
CA
Camilla AAmazing trip. Everything was perfect
Hanoi to Lao Cai, Train #SP3 Deluxe Sleeper 4x, Chapa Express, Feb 8, 2026
LP
Lara PWe booked on the VIP cabin and were not given the cabin we booked. We spoke to people who did get a cabin in vip part of the train and they paid the same and got what they asked for. We were give a 4 sleeper cabin with 2 single beds. The toilet was disgusting and dirty. It seemed they over booked the vip Avon and sadly we got the down grade with no refund!
Hanoi to Lao Cai, Train #SP7 Cabin 2x, NewLivitrans Express, Feb 5, 2026
CK
Christopher KTeam managed transfer to next station due to fault at bridge very well, for which we are grateful.
No toilet in our carriage.
Hanoi to Lao Cai, Train #SP7 Cabin 2x, NewLivitrans Express, Feb 5, 2026
MK
Mani KExcept for wifi not working, everything else was fine
Hanoi to Lao Cai, Train #SP3 VIP Twin Cabin + Van, Vicsapa Train, Feb 4, 2026
AR
Anthon RBest 12Go experience out of many
Hanoi to Lao Cai, Train #SP3 Deluxe Sleeper 4x, Chapa Express, Jan 28, 2026
Hanoi to Lao Cai Train Schedule
| Operator | Class | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Price | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Fanxipan Express | Deluxe Cabin 4x | 22:00 | 05:55 | $24.14 | |
Chapa Express | Deluxe Sleeper 4x | 22:00 | 06:00 | $32.14 | |
ET Pumpkin | Deluxe Cabin 4x | 22:01 | 06:01 | $25.81 | |
Fanxipan Express | Deluxe Cabin 4x | 22:30 | 06:25 | $24.14 | |
Vietnam Railways | 1st Class Sleeper | 22:36 | 05:55 | $17.05 | |
Chapa Express | Deluxe Sleeper 4x | 22:40 | 06:40 | $32.14 | |
Damitrans | Cabin 4x | 22:40 | 06:40 | $24.67 | |
Vietnam Railways | 1st Class Sleeper | 22:58 | 05:55 | $20.84 |
How to get from Hanoi to Lao Cai by Train
Taking a train to get from Hanoi to Lao Cai is a safe, fast, and scenic option to travel the country. On certain routes, there are multiple train departures per day every 10 to 15 minutes. This is typical for intercity travel, while for long distance train routes there are fewer scheduled departures – plan ahead to choose the one that fits your itinerary best.
For long distance train journeys, we recommend reserving your tickets at least a few days ahead of your travel date. Buying train tickets via our online booking system will allow you to choose and reserve the best Hanoi to Lao Cai tickets.
Buying your tickets online will help you secure the trip on the selected date and avoid queuing at the station.. When travelling on weekends and holidays it is recommended to reserve tickets much earlier due to a much higher demand. During high season, train tickets sell out quickly – do book as early as you can.
How far is it from Hanoi to Lao Cai?
Travelling by train, the distance from Hanoi to Lao Cai is 125 miles. Before setting on for a train journey, have a look at the map to find out what tourist spots or landmarks you will pass by – maybe they are worth a quick stop?
How long does it take to get from Hanoi to Lao Cai by Train?
Travel time from Hanoi to Lao Cai is estimated to be about 6h 33m. Trains ensure the fastest time to travel by land. As normally there is no congestion, the speed of travel is more or less constant and stops at train stations are rather short, train is almost always one of the quickest and safest ways to get from Hanoi and Lao Cai.
The most important thing that may affect train travel time is the type of train. Ordinary trains travel at a speed of about 40 mph or 65 km/h to 65 mph or 105 km/h. Some intercity trains with shorter distances between stations run slower than 40 mph. Even with these low speeds, it can still be faster than commuting by car, bus or taxi.
The speed of express trains can reach up to 100 mph or 160 km/h. Modern high-speed trains can run at speeds exceeding 250 mph or 400 km/h.
These speeds of travel together with relatively short stops between stations can greatly shorten the duration of your trip.
How much does it cost to get from Hanoi to Lao Cai by Train?
The train ticket price from Hanoi to Lao Cai varies depending on the types of trains or carriages available.
Some trains feature different types of carriages, seats and berths offering various amenities and level of comfort.
Basic passenger trains which are often non-air-conditioned and have wooden, hard or old seats are normally cheap. Premium or luxury trains and coaches have a higher ticket price but are equipped with air-conditioning, toilets, and large soft seats with sufficient legroom to make train rides comfortable.
Considering the distance travelled, train is the most affordable means of transport. Also, ticket prices include 2 or 3 bags – sometimes even more – per passenger.
Hanoi to Lao Cai timetable
Trains are great for long-distance travel. Double-check your travel itinerary and use the Hanoi to Lao Cai timetable above with train departure times and arrival times to find the best train for your route.
Best-Rated Companies for this Route
Unlike buses or taxis which have numerous companies offering their services, train service is usually offered by just one major company in each country. As railway service requires a large amount of infrastructure, most railway companies are government-owned and are a part of the national transport system.
One of the best advantages of travelling by train is that railway stations are often conveniently located within or very near major cities and urban areas. Immediately on arrival to their destination, travellers find themselves in close proximity to important facilities like hotels, supermarkets, and hospitals.
If you travel with a lot of bags and luggage, trains are your best option. Luggage weight limits on trains are rather flexible and allow you to carry multiple bags with you.
Special or luxury trains feature sufficient legroom which allows you to stretch your legs and relax. In comfort and space these train seats can be compared to business class airplane seats.
Similar to buses, trains can provide a variety of amenities to make your travel more comfortable and enjoyable. Modern trains have WIFI service, a snack counter and a drinking bar. Onboard toilets can be a life saver for travellers with queasy stomachs.
Lastly, unlike buses and other overland means of transport, trains are very rarely involved in accidents.
Transportation from Hanoi to Lao Cai
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Trains$ 18.79
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Buses$ 10.54
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Taxis$ 10.54
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Vans$ 14.75
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Ferries are not available
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Flights are not available